South Island NZ
Gateways to the South Island will be Christchurch, Queenstown or the ferry port of Picton in the north. The visitor arriving via Picton will be treated to the delightful scenery of Marlborough Sound – the myriad of islands and inlets that make up the Sound stand remote and beautiful against the sky. The Alpine range runs north/south through the spine of the Island, giving the dramatic contrasts between sea, rain forest and mountain on the western side. Abel Tasman in the north is delightful – explore on foot using the unique water taxis to drop you on a remote beach. Further south, the thriving towns of Queenstown, and lesser known Wanaka await your visit – rugged mountains cascading into the clear deep blue waters of a dozen lakes.
The Fjordland National Park is a must on most wish lists – Milford and Doubtful Sounds should not be missed, and for the more intrepid, perhaps an overnight stay aboard the exploration vessels. The Catlins and Stewart Island at the Southern end complete the Island, remote and wild – and a paradise for birders. Finally, the east coast and the whales of Kaikoura, the remarkable pre-historic remains of the Canterbury area and the city of Christchurch. What are you waiting for?
